Scientists discover the strange way CO2 cools part of Earth’s atmosphere
Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily·May 14, 2026
Scientists have discovered that carbon dioxide cools part of Earth's atmosphere, specifically the upper atmosphere, by radiating heat into space. Researchers at Columbia University found that CO2 acts differently at high altitudes, contrary to its heat-trapping effects near the surface. Certain infrared wavelengths become more effective at cooling the stratosphere as CO2 levels rise, creating a unique "Goldilocks zone". This phenomenon explains why the upper atmosphere is rapidly cooling despite the warming of Earth's surface.
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